2 Samuel 15:5

“And it was so, that when any man came nigh to him to do him obeisance, he put forth his hand, and took him, and kissed him.”

Context: This verse is part of the account of Absalom’s rebellion against King David.

Absalom, David’s son, was a charismatic and ambitious individual who sought to seize the throne from his father. In his quest for power, Absalom used cunning tactics to win the hearts of the people and gain their support. Verse 5 specifically describes one of the ways Absalom manipulated the people’s loyalty.

Let’s break down the verse and explore its significance: “And it was so”: This phrase indicates that the following events were happening at that time, emphasizing the context of Absalom’s rebellion. “that when any man came nigh to him to do him obeisance”: This phrase refers to people who approached Absalom to pay him homage or show him respect. It demonstrates Absalom’s desire to appear regal and authoritative, positioning himself as a potential king. “he put forth his hand, and taken him, and kissed him”: This action by Absalom is symbolic of his calculated strategy to win the favor of the people. By extending his hand and embracing those who approached him, Absalom created an impression of approachability and empathy. The kiss signifies a display of affection, reinforcing the illusion of personal connection and compassion.

This verse portrays Absalom as a master manipulator, using physical gestures to create an image of accessibility, trustworthiness, and empathy. By doing so, he gained the support and loyalty of the people, gradually undermining David’s reign.